Unboxing the PYD Life Vacuum Pump Set

First things first, let’s check out what’s inside! PYD Life really packed this kit with everything we need:

• User Manual: Helpful instructions and setup steps.
• Vacuum Tray: This is where all the sublimation magic happens, creating a solid, air-tight seal around the substrate.
• Pump: The heart of the vacuum system that makes it all work.
• Accessories: Everything from hoses and filters to silicone wraps and a sealing cloth—basically, everything we’ll need to get set up.

Everything feels sturdy and well-made, and it’s nice to have several tools included.  We will also need a drill and a wrench for the installation.

Setting Up the Sublimation Oven

This vacuum set is designed to work with the PYD Life 25L sublimation oven, so if you have one, you’re all set! Here’s how to get it ready for the vacuum setup:

1. Attach the Template: Start by attaching the template to the back of the oven, which shows exactly where to drill a hole for the vacuum attachment.
2. Drill a Hole: Once you mark the spot, grab your drill and make a hole. I highly recommend wearing safety glasses—those tiny metal shards fly everywhere!
3. Clean Up: Use a lint roller to pick up any leftover metal dust. This makes sure your oven stays nice and clean for sublimation.
4. Attach the Vacuum Connector: With the hole drilled, insert the connector and secure it with the washers and nut. A wrench helps to tighten everything up nicely.

Connecting the Vacuum Pump System

Now for the fun part: putting the vacuum pump system together. Here’s what to do:

1. Connect the Hose: Attach the hose to the vacuum connector on the oven and secure it with a hose clamp. Make sure it’s tight!
2. Add the Filter: This filter connects between the oven hose and the pump, ensuring that no debris sneaks into the vacuum system.
3. Seal It Up: When you’re not using the vacuum, remove the hardware and just pop in the stopper to keep the system sealed and prevent heat loss.

Getting the Vacuum Tray Ready for Sublimation

Now, let’s prep the vacuum tray. This is where our slate will go, so it’s important to set it up just right:

1. Check the Silicone Ring and Sealing Cloth: PYD Life has done most of the work here by pre-assembling the sealing cloth and silicone ring. These create a tight seal around the substrate, helping it press perfectly.
2. Remove Base Plates if Needed: If you’re working with flat items like slate, remove the base plates. Use a Phillips screwdriver, and cover the holes with the provided sealing cloth to keep everything airtight.

Preheating the Tray and Oven

Before we jump into sublimating, we need to preheat the oven and tray. Here’s what I did:

1. Set the Temperature: Go ahead and set your oven to 365°F and the timer to 10 minutes.
2. Insert the Tray: Place it on the top rack and let it preheat. This gets everything nice and even, so the transfer works like a charm.

Prepping the Slate for Sublimation

Now for the slate! Sublimating on slate adds such a cool, rustic vibe, and it’s really easy to set up:

1. Print Your Design: I used PYD Life sublimation paper with my Epson F170 sublimation printer. It prints beautifully, so the colors stay vibrant.
2. Position the Design on the Slate: Center your design on the slate and secure it with heat-resistant tape.
3. Grab Your Gloves: Remember, the oven gets HOT, so make sure you have heat gloves on before handling anything inside.

Sublimating the Slate in the Oven

Here’s where the vacuum system really shines. Let’s go through the steps to get that perfect sublimation transfer:

1. Arrange Your Slate on the Tray: Start by placing a layer of sublimation paper on the tray, then add your slate with the design face-up. Cover it with another piece of sublimation paper.
2. Close the Vacuum Tray: Once your slate is set, close the tray and clamp it down. This creates the vacuum seal that applies even pressure on your slate.
3. Set the Timer for 10 Minutes: Once the oven reaches 365°F, put the tray inside and press the vacuum button. The system will suck the air out, creating a tight wrap around the substrate for that flawless transfer.
4. Wait for 10 Minutes: Give it time to work. The vacuum’s pressure and the heat ensure your design transfers fully and evenly.

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Cooling and Inspecting Your Slate

After the oven beeps, it’s time to see the results!

1. Remove the Tray Carefully: Release the vacuum, open the tray, and take out your slate (don’t forget those gloves!).
2. Inspect the Transfer: You should see a beautifully transferred design that goes all the way to the edges. If you notice any ink bleed on the silicone, use thicker sublimation paper next time to prevent this.

Comparing Results with a Traditional Heat Press

This vacuum system has its perks! I usually use a traditional heat press, but here’s what I noticed:

• Edge-to-Edge Coverage: Unlike a standard press, this vacuum system wraps around every corner of the slate, which means no unsublimated spots on the edges.
• Professional Quality: The vacuum pump gives a flawless, store-quality finish. The colors are bright, and the details are crisp.
• Efficiency: While it takes around 10 minutes to do two slates in the vacuum oven, I can’t argue with the results—it’s worth it for projects where quality matters most.

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Review

I have to say, I’m impressed with the PYD Life Vacuum Pump Set. It’s an amazing addition to any sublimation setup, especially for unique substrates like slate. The vacuum system makes all the difference in getting those seamless, edge-to-edge designs, and while it takes a few extra minutes compared to a traditional press, the results speak for themselves.

If you have a small business and you’re selling your creations, this setup makes it easy to produce high-quality, professional-looking items. Let me know in the comments if you want to see more substrates tested with this vacuum system!

Happy Crafting!

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Need more sublimation ideas? Check these out…

Unboxing and Testing the New PYD Life Auto Tumbler Press

How to Sublimate Glass Cutting Boards

How to Sublimate Acrylic Signs: A Step-by-Step Guide

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